If you’re preparing for a move, you’ve probably asked yourself, “Where can I find moving boxes close to me?” Better yet, “Where can I get free moving boxes?” Buying brand-new boxes can get pricey and moving already comes with enough costs—like hiring movers or renting a storage unit—so saving wherever you can is a smart move.
On average, a local move costs about $1,250, while a long-distance move (roughly 1,000 miles) can cost around $4,890. With all those expenses, spending extra on moving boxes might not feel worth it. Plus, after the move, you’ll likely end up recycling or tossing the boxes which can make it seem like wasted money.
Fortunately, you don’t have to spend a lot on moving boxes. There are plenty of ways to find free boxes from local stores, online websites and community groups, which can help you save a good amount on moving expenses. Except for a few special boxes meant for things like TVs or mirrors, you can probably pack your whole house using free boxes.
How much do moving boxes cost?
Basic moving boxes usually cost between $1 for a small box and $3.75 for a large one, according to CostHelper.com. However, specialized boxes like wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes or mirror boxes are more expensive. Other packing supplies can also add up—for example, packing paper costs around $9 per pack, glass-packing kits are priced between $10 and $15 each and kitchen kits for packing dishes and glasses can cost roughly $102.
If you’re thinking about buying a complete moving kit, here’s an idea of what it might cost:
- A kit for a one-bedroom apartment typically costs $69 to $90 & includes 14 to 29 boxes.
- A kit for a two-bedroom house usually ranges from $178 to $197 & comes with 55 to 60 boxes.
- A kit for a four-bedroom house can cost between $311 & $404 or includes 86 to 119 boxes.
These moving kits often include additional supplies like packing tape, bubble wrap and markers to make packing easier.
Here’s an estimate of the costs for different sizes of cardboard boxes:
- Small boxes: $1 to $1.70 each
- Medium boxes: $2.35 to $2.79 each
- Large boxes: $3 each
- Extra-large boxes: $3.75 each
- Wardrobe boxes: $8 to $12 each
- Picture boxes: $10 each
How many moving boxes do I need?
Here’s a general idea:
- For a studio apartment, you’ll need about $97 worth of boxes.
- For a one-bedroom home, plan for around $124 worth of boxes.
- For a three-bedroom home, expect to spend about $178 on boxes.
To figure out the exact number of boxes you’ll need, you can use a packing calculator. It considers things like the number of bedrooms, how many people you’re packing for and your packing style.
Also, keep weight in mind! Boxes can hold anywhere from 30 to 150 pounds depending on their size and whether they’re single- or double-walled. Avoid overfilling boxes, as they might tear or break.
25 Places to Find Free Moving Boxes Near You
Need free moving boxes in your area? Here are 25 places to check out to help you save money while moving. Good luck with your search!
U-Haul Box Exchange
U-Haul has a Customer Connect Box Exchange where you can find or share moving supplies. Simply enter your location and search for “Free Boxes” to see if anyone nearby is giving them away. Many people offering free boxes are those who recently moved and want to get rid of their extras.
Craigslist
Craigslist is a well-known platform for finding just about anything, including free moving boxes. Look in the “Free” section under the “For Sale” category. Locals often list items they’re giving away. You can also post an ad to let others know you’re searching for free boxes and packing materials.
The Freecycle Network
Freecycle is a great place to find free boxes in your area. It’s a non-profit platform where people give away items they no longer need. Sign up for free, join your local Freecycle group and post a request for free moving boxes.
Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace isn’t just for buying and selling—it’s also a great place to find free items. Search for “free boxes” and filter by your location to see if anyone nearby is giving them away.
Nextdoor.com
Nextdoor.com connects you with your local neighborhood and is another excellent resource for free moving boxes. It has a “Classifieds” section where people often post items they’re giving away, including boxes. If you don’t see any listed, you can create a post asking for free boxes and someone in your community may have extras to share.
OfferUp
OfferUp is a mobile app where people can sell or give away items. To find free boxes, simply search “free boxes” in the app and you’ll see local listings of people offering them for free.
Large Retailers
Stores like Walmart, Costco, Target and Home Depot get large shipments daily, so they often have extra boxes available. You can also try smaller stores like dollar stores, shoe stores or home supply shops.
Pro Tip
Visit these stores when they’re restocking shelves to get boxes easily. Just be sure to ask the staff for permission before taking any.
Liquor Stores
If there’s a liquor or wine store near you, ask the manager if they have any extra boxes. These stores get regular shipments and their boxes often have dividers, making them perfect for packing delicate items like wine glasses. Bigger liquor stores usually have more boxes than they need, so don’t hesitate to ask.
Bookstores
Both large chain bookstores and small local ones usually have strong boxes that are great for packing smaller items, decorations or books. Since books are heavy, these boxes are built to handle weight. College or university bookstores are also good places to check for spare boxes.
Grocery Stores
Grocery stores, whether large or small, receive frequent deliveries, especially for fresh produce, meaning they often have plenty of sturdy boxes available. The next time you’re shopping, ask the manager if they have any boxes to spare—they’ll likely be happy to let you take some.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS get shipments several times a week. If you see a stack of flattened boxes behind the store, ask the staff if you can take some. To make it easier, call ahead and ask when their next shipment is arriving so you can pick up boxes at the right time.
Arts, Crafts & Hobby Stores
Stores like Hobby Lobby, Michaels and Jo-Ann receive frequent deliveries and often have boxes in different sizes. Whether you need small or large boxes for moving, these stores are a great option to check.
Coffee Shops
Both big chains like Starbucks and small local coffee shops get regular deliveries of coffee supplies and food. These deliveries usually come in small to medium boxes which are ideal for packing and moving.
Bars
Like liquor stores, bars are great places to find free moving boxes, especially ones with dividers that are ideal for packing glasses. Ask the staff when their shipments come in so you can grab the boxes before they’re thrown out. Bars usually dispose of boxes quickly due to limited storage space. If you’re moving near a holiday, even better—bars stock up for events like St. Patrick’s Day or the Super Bowl, so they’ll have more boxes available.
Restaurants
Fast food places and restaurants get regular deliveries which means they often have lots of boxes to spare. Just make sure to avoid any boxes with food stains to keep your belongings from smelling like spilled food.
Offices
Your workplace can also be a great place to find free boxes. Offices often receive paper shipments in sturdy boxes with lids. If you work in a larger office, check the recycling area—it’s likely full of boxes that are perfect for moving.
Recycling Drop-Off Points
Recycling centers can be a treasure trove for free moving boxes. Many cities have drop-off locations where people leave flattened cardboard. If the boxes are still in good shape, you’ll likely find plenty for your move.
Auto Shops
Auto parts stores, repair shops and oil change services regularly receive deliveries of car parts and supplies. Stop by and ask if they have any large boxes they no longer need—they’ll often be happy to share.
Apartment Complexes
Apartment complexes are a great spot to find free boxes since people are always moving in and out. Check the recycling area (with permission) or ask the apartment office staff if they have any spare boxes left behind by previous tenants.
College Dorms
At the start or end of the school year, college dorms are a great place to find free moving boxes. Students moving in or out often have plenty of extra boxes they no longer need.
Friends & Family
The simplest way to get free boxes is by asking friends and family. Call, text or visit them to see if they have any boxes from recent deliveries or moves. You can also post on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter or Instagram to let people know you’re looking for moving boxes.
Yard & Garage Sales
Yard and garage sales often have extra boxes lying around. Drop by and ask if they’re willing to give you some. If you visit toward the end of the sale, they’re more likely to hand them over for free.
Neighbors Who Recently Moved
Take a stroll around your neighborhood and look for homes where people have recently moved in. You might see boxes placed out for recycling—just make sure to ask for permission before taking them. You can also ask neighbors if they’ve recently moved, as they might have extra boxes they’re happy to give away.
Schools
Local schools, such as elementary, middle and high schools, often have spare boxes from shipments. Call the school office and ask if they have any available. The beginning of the school year is an especially good time to check, as schools receive many deliveries of books and supplies during this period.
Libraries
Libraries get large shipments of books and the boxes they use are usually very sturdy, making them ideal for packing heavy items. These boxes are great for moving books, clothes, shoes or smaller items.
Other Ways to Get Boxes
Save Boxes from Your Mail
Hold onto boxes from your mail deliveries, like Amazon packages or USPS Priority Mail. Instead of recycling them right away, save the boxes and any packing materials for your move.
Rent Plastic Moving Boxes
If you’d rather not use cardboard boxes, you can rent plastic moving boxes from companies like BluBox-It, U-Haul, Rent a Green Box or Bungo Box. These boxes are strong, reusable and ideal for moving. Many of these companies also offer other moving supplies, like blankets and equipment, for rent.
Buy What You Still Need from Budget-Friendly Stores
Finding free moving supplies can take time and some items, like specialty boxes, might be difficult to find for free. If you can’t get everything you need, consider buying from these affordable stores:
- Amazon: Offers a wide variety of moving supplies and Prime members get free shipping.
- Walmart: Sells different types of moving supplies, including boxes from various brands.
- Home Depot: A great place for standard boxes, specialty boxes, dish-packing kits and other packing materials.
- Staples: A convenient local option for a range of moving supplies.
If you're okay with spending a little, these retailers have everything you’ll need to make your move easier.
The Do’s & Don’ts of Finding Moving Boxes
Do Ask for Permission before Taking Boxes
Always ask before taking boxes from stores or offices. Grabbing boxes without permission is not only impolite but could also get you in trouble. Call ahead to check if they have boxes available to avoid wasting time.
Don’t Take Damaged Boxes
Stay away from boxes that are torn, broken or falling apart. Moving can be tough on your belongings, so it’s important to use sturdy boxes that will protect your items properly. Damaged boxes won’t provide the support you need.
Do Let Others Know You Need Free Boxes
If you’re having a hard time finding free boxes, post on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Nextdoor.com. Share with your neighbors that you’re looking for moving boxes—many people might have extras from recent moves that they haven’t listed yet.
Don’t Use Dirty or Smelly Boxes
Avoid boxes that are dirty, wet or have strong odors. Boxes used for food or other items that leave stains or smells can transfer those odors to your belongings, so it’s better to skip them.
Do Be Careful When Picking Up Boxes from Strangers
If you’re getting boxes from someone you don’t know, like through an online ad, take safety precautions. Meet in a well-lit, public place and consider bringing a friend along to stay safe.
Use a Box Calculator to Plan How Many Boxes You’ll Need
Before you start collecting boxes, it’s helpful to estimate how many you’ll need. Online box calculators can help—just enter details like the number of bedrooms, your lifestyle and how many people live in your home. This will give you a clear idea of the number of boxes required for your move.
Moving Soon?
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Get a quote today & let them take the hassle out of your move.
Good luck & happy moving!